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About the conference

Why is reclaiming your purpose significant now? Constant change and disruptions have required all of us to course correct, especially in Illinois. It’s easy to forget why what we do matters. Your glass may seem half empty, but as nonprofit leaders, we know that the glass is always half full. Refocusing on our purpose as individuals, organizations and advocates does matter; it matters to our colleagues, clients and supporters. Join us as we examine how tapping into your purpose strengthens the foundation for sustainability in the midst of unprecedented distractions. It’s time to refocus on what matters and why.

Session descriptions

"Sustaining Talent Engagement to Drive Mission"

Presented by Lisa Brown Alexander, President & CEO, Nonprofit HR

What matters to employees – to keep them connected and engaged? Among other things, employees care about having the opportunity to learn and grow, to build relationships with their colleagues, to maintain work/life balance, and to be appreciated.

When we cannot control the environment outside of our workplace, we need to pay even more attention to elements we can influence. As leaders, we are responsible for creating a positive, healthy work environment. As a team, we can make it happen.

Let’s brainstorm strategies that do work for greater engagement and overall productivity. Let’s also talk about what doesn’t work. What leads to the “revolving door syndrome?” This session will involve YOU in actual problem-solving discussions. Leave with strategies to take back to your teams that will help you foster a stronger, more effective organization.

Why does a funder support one organization over another? What are some of the key attributes that distinguish one organization from another beyond mission, target group and geographic focus? What is the “secret sauce” that a funder seeks? Are there any common factors that contribute to funder decisions not to recommend or renew a grant?

Why did “that” organization get the grant when yours did not? Go beyond the basics and consider some of the important and less tangible factors you can control that may make a difference in surviving and thriving in this uncertain environment by gaining and retaining the support of your funders (and acquiring new ones).

Come listen to a panel of foundation leaders share their observations and insights. Consider ways you might make changes within your organization and prepare differently for your next interaction with a funder.

Ask A Funder is back by popular demand!

This session gives attendees the opportunity to have brief, 15 minute conversations with program officers at Chicago area foundations on topics other than “What kinds of programs does your foundation support?” The Ask a Funder session is a prime opportunity for attendees to engage beyond their elevator pitch, and get on the funder’s radar first through relationship building.